what is the role of dna in evolution

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 science review

1. What role does DNA play in evolution?

A. It stores genetic information that can be passed on to offspring.
B. It allows for mutations that can introduce new variations.
C. It regulates the expression of genes that influence traits.
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) DNA stores genetic information that is passed on from parents to offspring through the process of reproduction. This genetic information contains instructions for the development and functioning of an organism. It serves as the hereditary material that carries the blueprint for an organism's traits and characteristics, allowing for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next. B) DNA can undergo mutations, which are changes in the genetic sequence. These mutations can introduce new variations in the DNA, leading to genetic diversity within a population. These variations are essential for natural selection and adaptation to changing environments. C) DNA plays a crucial role in regulating the expression of genes. Gene expression determines which proteins are produced in an organism, influencing its traits and characteristics. By controlling gene expression, DNA contributes to the development and maintenance of an organism's traits. D) Therefore, DNA is involved in all of the above processes, making it a key factor in evolution by driving genetic variation, inheritance, and gene expression. The interplay of these functions allows for the diversity and adaptation of species over time, shaping the evolutionary process.

2. What is the role of transfer RNA (tRNA) in protein synthesis?

A. Transcribes DNA into mRNA
B. Decodes the genetic code on mRNA
C. Carries specific amino acids to the ribosomes
D. Modifies the structure of proteins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Transcribes DNA into mRNA: This is the function of RNA polymerase, not transfer RNA (tRNA). tRNA is involved in protein synthesis, not transcription. B) Decodes the genetic code on mRNA: This is the function of tRNA during translation. tRNA molecules carry specific amino acids and recognize the codons on mRNA, ensuring the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain. C) Carries specific amino acids to the ribosomes: This is the primary role of tRNA in protein synthesis. Each tRNA molecule is specific for a particular amino acid and carries it to the ribosome, where it is added to the growing protein chain. D) Modifies the structure of proteins: This is not a function of tRNA. Protein modification can occur after translation is complete and involves other cellular processes and molecules.

3. Which of the following statements regarding heart valves is correct?

A. The atrioventricular valves lie between the atria and the ventricles.
B. The pulmonary semilunar valve lies between the right ventricle and the pulmonary trunk.
C. The atrioventricular valves prevent backflow into the atria when the ventricles contract.
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: All of the statements are correct regarding heart valves. Choice A is accurate as the atrioventricular valves indeed lie between the atria and the ventricles. Choice B correctly identifies the location of the pulmonary semilunar valve. Choice C is true as the atrioventricular valves do prevent backflow into the atria during ventricular contraction. Therefore, selecting 'All of the above' as the correct answer is appropriate as all statements are accurate.

4. Why is maintaining good muscle strength and flexibility as we age important?

A. To prevent headaches
B. To prevent falls
C. To reduce anxiety
D. To avoid the common cold

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining good muscle strength and flexibility as we age is crucial to prevent falls. Strong muscles and good flexibility help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries, especially in older adults. Falls are a significant concern for the elderly population, and preventing them through muscle strength and flexibility can enhance overall quality of life. Headaches are not directly related to muscle strength and flexibility; they can have various causes such as stress, dehydration, or underlying health conditions. Anxiety is a mental health condition and not directly prevented by muscle strength and flexibility. Similarly, the common cold is a viral infection and is not influenced by muscle strength and flexibility.

5. What is the acceleration of an object moving at a constant speed of 20 m/s if it comes to a complete stop within 5 seconds?

A. 0 m/s² (no acceleration)
B. 4 m/s²
C. -4 m/s²
D. Insufficient information

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To find the acceleration, we use the formula: acceleration = (final velocity - initial velocity) / time. Given that the final velocity is 0 m/s (as the object stops), the initial velocity is 20 m/s, and the time taken is 5 seconds. Substituting these values into the formula, we get acceleration = (0 m/s - 20 m/s) / 5 s = -20 m/s / 5 s = -4 m/s². Therefore, the acceleration is -4 m/s², indicating that the object decelerated at a rate of 4 m/s² to come to a complete stop. Choice A is incorrect because the object does experience acceleration as it changes its speed from 20 m/s to 0 m/s. Choice B is incorrect as it represents acceleration in the wrong direction, considering the object is decelerating. Choice D is incorrect as there is sufficient information provided to calculate the acceleration based on the given data.